Outrage Grows Over Massive Gas Plant Expansion: A ‘Climate Bomb’ in the Making – Insights from Michael West

A gas project in Western Australia is set to continue operating for decades, sparking strong reactions from environmentalists. On May 28, 2025, federal environment minister Murray Watt approved Woodside’s plan to extend its North West Shelf project until 2070, pushing it back from the original 2030 end date.

This decision comes with conditions aimed at controlling air emissions from the expanded gas plant at Karratha. Woodside must respond within ten business days, and Watt will consider that feedback before finalizing his decision.

A key concern is the impact of emissions on the Murujuga rock art in the Dampier Archipelago. Watt emphasized that protecting this ancient art is a priority in his proposal. Yet, recent reports suggest that UNESCO may reject Australia’s effort to list the Murujuga rock art as a World Heritage site. According to the International Council on Monuments and Sites, industrial emissions are a significant threat to the site’s integrity.

Piper Rollins from the Australian Conservation Foundation pointed out that the gas hub poses serious risks to the rock art and highlighted the dilemma facing the Australian government. “You can’t have your cake and eat it,” she noted. The extension and the preservation of the rock art cannot coexist.

Greenpeace Australia’s leader, David Ritter, criticized the decision, mentioning the environmental risks to marine life near Scott Reef. "The North West Shelf facility is among Australia’s most polluting projects," he said, signaling that the upcoming decision on the Browse proposal will reveal the Albanese government’s commitment to environmental health.

Independent senator Lidia Thorpe expressed that the decision could result in long-term damage to sacred sites. She emphasized that proper consultation with local communities, especially traditional custodians, was overlooked. “Pushing this decision during Reconciliation Week is disrespectful,” she stated.

Research from the Australia Institute sheds light on the situation. The emissions from the proposed extension could equal 33 years’ worth of Australia’s total emissions, raising alarms about climate impacts.

As this decision unfolds, it highlights the ongoing tension between fossil fuel projects and environmental preservation. The public is watching closely, and opinions from experts and communities will shape future discussions. For ongoing updates on this topic and more, visit Australian Associated Press.

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